Weight Loss Therapists in Storrs Mansfield, CT

Photo of Michelle Allison, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Allison
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Storrs Mansfield, CT 06268  (Online Only)
It's not easy reaching out for professional help with relationship, family or emotional problems, but I hope you choose to take this important first step toward changing your life for the better. In my 30 years of practice, I have never felt a greater sense of hope and optimism about what talk therapy can realistically offer to reduce suffering and improve our personal and family lives. I can present you with a "user friendly" path into treatment that will ease your very understandable anxiety and skepticism. My goals for you as a client are learning, growth, empowerment and customer satisfaction.
It's not easy reaching out for professional help with relationship, family or emotional problems, but I hope you choose to take this important first step toward changing your life for the better. In my 30 years of practice, I have never felt a greater sense of hope and optimism about what talk therapy can realistically offer to reduce suffering and improve our personal and family lives. I can present you with a "user friendly" path into treatment that will ease your very understandable anxiety and skepticism. My goals for you as a client are learning, growth, empowerment and customer satisfaction.
(860) 451-9910 View (860) 451-9910
Photo of Susan M Cohen, LCSW, MSW, BS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan M Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Storrs Mansfield, CT 06268
Working with college students, couples, gender issues, individuals, parenting. If you are a Veteran about to deploy/post deployment- I am a provider for the MilitaryOne program. I incorporate trauma work/yoga, mind-body connections ElderCare throughout the life span and working with caregivers is also provided for the sandwiched baby boomer. Addictions/family problems are difficult & an area of specialization. If you seek a therapeutic alliance to work out problems in a compassionate & empowering environment, call me: 860 450-6267. In-office, Telephone and video sessions are possible for all CT residents. Thank-you.
Working with college students, couples, gender issues, individuals, parenting. If you are a Veteran about to deploy/post deployment- I am a provider for the MilitaryOne program. I incorporate trauma work/yoga, mind-body connections ElderCare throughout the life span and working with caregivers is also provided for the sandwiched baby boomer. Addictions/family problems are difficult & an area of specialization. If you seek a therapeutic alliance to work out problems in a compassionate & empowering environment, call me: 860 450-6267. In-office, Telephone and video sessions are possible for all CT residents. Thank-you.
(860) 322-5084 View (860) 322-5084
Photo of Andrew FB Campbell, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrew FB Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Storrs Mansfield, CT 06268  (Online Only)
Kindness. Letting Go. Acceptance. Patience. Trust. Peace. If these words resonate with you, you may benefit from an approach like mindfulness based cognitive behavioral therapy. With this approach you can practice being kind and accepting towards yourself, including your thoughts and feelings, while at the same time working towards understanding and changing any unhelpful beliefs, habits, or situations in your life. Modern life, with all its stress and busyness and commotion, seems to combine with our individual challenges, difficulties, and burdens to push our human minds and bodies past the point of health and wellness.
Kindness. Letting Go. Acceptance. Patience. Trust. Peace. If these words resonate with you, you may benefit from an approach like mindfulness based cognitive behavioral therapy. With this approach you can practice being kind and accepting towards yourself, including your thoughts and feelings, while at the same time working towards understanding and changing any unhelpful beliefs, habits, or situations in your life. Modern life, with all its stress and busyness and commotion, seems to combine with our individual challenges, difficulties, and burdens to push our human minds and bodies past the point of health and wellness.
(860) 266-4248 View (860) 266-4248
Photo of Susan Blayer, LCSW, MDiv, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Blayer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Storrs Mansfield, CT 06268  (Online Only)
You deserve to stop struggling with the issues in your life and to be happier. No matter what you may be feeling, or what thought or behavior patterns may be holding you back, there is hope. It is a powerful first step to ask for help. I provide a safe, non-judgemental space where we can explore whatever is in the way of your best life and most ideal self. Specializing in couples therapy, particularly those facing issues of betrayal.
You deserve to stop struggling with the issues in your life and to be happier. No matter what you may be feeling, or what thought or behavior patterns may be holding you back, there is hope. It is a powerful first step to ask for help. I provide a safe, non-judgemental space where we can explore whatever is in the way of your best life and most ideal self. Specializing in couples therapy, particularly those facing issues of betrayal.
(475) 290-6194 View (475) 290-6194

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of New England Holistic Well-Being Center - New England Holistic Well-being Center, PhD, Psychologist
New England Holistic Well-being Center
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Columbia, CT 06237
Psychological, physical, and social difficulties can contribute to distress and hamper our day-to-day activities. At New England Holistic Well-Being Center ​we approach treatment, coaching, and intervention from a health psychology perspective that emphasizes a holistic understanding of you. We take into account not only a person’s physical and emotional symptoms but also their life experiences, social context, and other factors that promote and maintain health. We encourage the adoption of tailored strategies that fit your goals and understand that not every approach will work for everyone.
Psychological, physical, and social difficulties can contribute to distress and hamper our day-to-day activities. At New England Holistic Well-Being Center ​we approach treatment, coaching, and intervention from a health psychology perspective that emphasizes a holistic understanding of you. We take into account not only a person’s physical and emotional symptoms but also their life experiences, social context, and other factors that promote and maintain health. We encourage the adoption of tailored strategies that fit your goals and understand that not every approach will work for everyone.
(860) 485-7463 View (860) 485-7463
Photo of Julie M Hoagland, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie M Hoagland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Coventry, CT 06238
Online Sessions available during this time. I offer a safe place for you to lean into your discomfort and teach how to be courageous and compassionate with yourself. I am committed to helping you set free from negative thoughts and beliefs that have led to unwanted patterns. Together we will open up options, choices and possibilities where you likely now think you have none. Change can be hard, we will celebrate the small wins we make along the way.
Online Sessions available during this time. I offer a safe place for you to lean into your discomfort and teach how to be courageous and compassionate with yourself. I am committed to helping you set free from negative thoughts and beliefs that have led to unwanted patterns. Together we will open up options, choices and possibilities where you likely now think you have none. Change can be hard, we will celebrate the small wins we make along the way.
(860) 406-7411 View (860) 406-7411
Photo of Laurie Mazzarella, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Mazzarella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226
Waitlist for new clients
After almost 30 years in mental health, I'm still passionate about the work I do. With that said, I'm here to help with the problems that have brought you to therapy. Gathering information and developing our relationship, along with trust and creating a safe space to share are my strengths in helping others. I use various approaches to assist clients. Along with this, I enjoy educating about how we learn and form in an inter-generational family system and how we can transmit problems in that family system unconsciously. This can inform and empower growth and change.
After almost 30 years in mental health, I'm still passionate about the work I do. With that said, I'm here to help with the problems that have brought you to therapy. Gathering information and developing our relationship, along with trust and creating a safe space to share are my strengths in helping others. I use various approaches to assist clients. Along with this, I enjoy educating about how we learn and form in an inter-generational family system and how we can transmit problems in that family system unconsciously. This can inform and empower growth and change.
(959) 207-8416 View (959) 207-8416

Online Therapists

Photo of Amy Elizabeth Dumont, LCSW, INHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Elizabeth Dumont
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, INHC
Verified Verified
Middlebury, CT 06762
We need to fully gain an understanding of all the factors that may be influencing weight gain or preventing weight loss.
I help clients make informed decisions regarding risks and rewards of weight loss surgery. During counseling sessions,we will discuss such topics as the importance of making lifestyle changes pre and post bariatric surgery, and explore potential obstacles that may stand in the way of achieving a successful surgery and/or long-term weight loss.Surgery is no guarantee of sustained weight loss. It is critical to have realistic goals and expectations. I can help you establish a positive relationship with food and eating as well as develop a plan to reach your goal of long-term weight loss.
We need to fully gain an understanding of all the factors that may be influencing weight gain or preventing weight loss.
I help clients make informed decisions regarding risks and rewards of weight loss surgery. During counseling sessions,we will discuss such topics as the importance of making lifestyle changes pre and post bariatric surgery, and explore potential obstacles that may stand in the way of achieving a successful surgery and/or long-term weight loss.Surgery is no guarantee of sustained weight loss. It is critical to have realistic goals and expectations. I can help you establish a positive relationship with food and eating as well as develop a plan to reach your goal of long-term weight loss.
(203) 463-4721 View (203) 463-4721
Photo of Dr. Belinda Newcomer, PhD , LPC, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Dr. Belinda Newcomer
Counselor, PhD , LPC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bridgeport, CT 06604  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with stress, motivation, weight loss, unresolved trauma, emotional eating or anxiety? I have over 20 years of clinical experience helping people identify, and change troubling thoughts, emotions, and behaviors associated with anxiety, trauma, low motivation, weight loss, and athletic goals. Clients appreciate my laidback, informal, and casual demeanor. My goal is to ensure you feel comfortable during the intake process and feel increased positivity after every session. Let's work together to improve your overall energy and self-esteem. It may only take a couple of sessions to get you back on track.
Are you struggling with stress, motivation, weight loss, unresolved trauma, emotional eating or anxiety? I have over 20 years of clinical experience helping people identify, and change troubling thoughts, emotions, and behaviors associated with anxiety, trauma, low motivation, weight loss, and athletic goals. Clients appreciate my laidback, informal, and casual demeanor. My goal is to ensure you feel comfortable during the intake process and feel increased positivity after every session. Let's work together to improve your overall energy and self-esteem. It may only take a couple of sessions to get you back on track.
(475) 325-5919 View (475) 325-5919
Photo of Robert Barnett - High Performance Hypnotherapy, CHT, PMP, MBA
High Performance Hypnotherapy
CHT, PMP, MBA
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CT 06824
I have personally experienced challenges like stress, anxiety, focus issues, weight loss and learned how to overcome with a combination of tools.
With 95% of decision, actions, and emotions being determined by your subconscious, change can be tough! The work we do together levels the playing field and better aligns your subconscious programming to you conscious goals, letting you achieve more. Forget what you think you know about hypnosis and hypnotherapy. At High Performance Hypnotherapy our approach combines the latest neuroscience, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques, and hypnosis to create a customized, comprehensive treatment plan for each client.
I have personally experienced challenges like stress, anxiety, focus issues, weight loss and learned how to overcome with a combination of tools.
With 95% of decision, actions, and emotions being determined by your subconscious, change can be tough! The work we do together levels the playing field and better aligns your subconscious programming to you conscious goals, letting you achieve more. Forget what you think you know about hypnosis and hypnotherapy. At High Performance Hypnotherapy our approach combines the latest neuroscience, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques, and hypnosis to create a customized, comprehensive treatment plan for each client.
(475) 800-8605 View (475) 800-8605
Photo of Margaret Sala - Sala Psychology, PhD, Psychologist
Sala Psychology
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cos Cob, CT 06807
We are currently accepting new clients. We have the most expertise in helping clients with: (1) Eating disorders; (2) Behavioral weight loss; (3) Parenting concerns; (4) Couples counseling; (5) Behavioral health (insomnia/sleep disorders, chronic pain, alcohol abuse) (6) Anxiety/stress (general, social anxiety, phobias, panic disorder); (7) Depression; and (8) Trauma/PTSD. We have therapists who specialize in working with children, adolescents, families, and adults. We carefully tailor evidence-based psychotherapy (EBPs), which are treatments that are based directly on scientific evidence from several large-scale clinical trials.
We are currently accepting new clients. We have the most expertise in helping clients with: (1) Eating disorders; (2) Behavioral weight loss; (3) Parenting concerns; (4) Couples counseling; (5) Behavioral health (insomnia/sleep disorders, chronic pain, alcohol abuse) (6) Anxiety/stress (general, social anxiety, phobias, panic disorder); (7) Depression; and (8) Trauma/PTSD. We have therapists who specialize in working with children, adolescents, families, and adults. We carefully tailor evidence-based psychotherapy (EBPs), which are treatments that are based directly on scientific evidence from several large-scale clinical trials.
(475) 234-2862 View (475) 234-2862
Photo of Judy Silberkleit, PsyD, Psychologist
Judy Silberkleit
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Stratford, CT 06615  (Online Only)
Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 17 years of experience helping people overcome anxiety, depression, low self esteem, and relationship problems. I want my clients to feel comfortable talking about issues in an understanding, nonjudgmental, and caring therapeutic relationship. I actively listen and also provide constructive and supportive feedback as we collaborate in problem solving. My specializations are anxiety disorders: generalized anxiety, panic disorder, social phobia, and also depression. Relationship issues: whether single, married, or divorced. In addition, helping singles successfully navigate the world of dating. Also specialize in stress management, self esteem, assertiveness, weight loss, exercise motivation, and life coaching.
Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 17 years of experience helping people overcome anxiety, depression, low self esteem, and relationship problems. I want my clients to feel comfortable talking about issues in an understanding, nonjudgmental, and caring therapeutic relationship. I actively listen and also provide constructive and supportive feedback as we collaborate in problem solving. My specializations are anxiety disorders: generalized anxiety, panic disorder, social phobia, and also depression. Relationship issues: whether single, married, or divorced. In addition, helping singles successfully navigate the world of dating. Also specialize in stress management, self esteem, assertiveness, weight loss, exercise motivation, and life coaching.
(203) 763-4022 View (203) 763-4022
Photo of Kathy Hayes-Bloch, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathy Hayes-Bloch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ridgefield, CT 06877
Some offerings are Mindful Parenting, Everyday hypnosis, Positive Psychology, Smart weight loss, and Smart-stop smoking cessation.
Are you a busy parent feeling stressed by the demands of work and family? Perhaps you're facing the prospect of an empty nest and it is overwhelming. Maybe your mood is easily changeable, or life has become difficult, and you need someone to talk to. I am a seasoned psychotherapist who has accompanied many people on their healing journeys over the past 20 years. I find that mindfulness practices and hypnosis are additional tools that support people’s movement toward empowerment and freedom as they learn to heal and create a lasting sense of well-being.
Some offerings are Mindful Parenting, Everyday hypnosis, Positive Psychology, Smart weight loss, and Smart-stop smoking cessation.
Are you a busy parent feeling stressed by the demands of work and family? Perhaps you're facing the prospect of an empty nest and it is overwhelming. Maybe your mood is easily changeable, or life has become difficult, and you need someone to talk to. I am a seasoned psychotherapist who has accompanied many people on their healing journeys over the past 20 years. I find that mindfulness practices and hypnosis are additional tools that support people’s movement toward empowerment and freedom as they learn to heal and create a lasting sense of well-being.
(203) 920-4321 View (203) 920-4321
Photo of Kristin N Allard, MA, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristin N Allard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pomfret Center, CT 06259
Waitlist for new clients
My practice, Esteem Counseling Center, is dedicated to providing high quality outpatient psychotherapy services in Northeast Connecticut. I believe that mental wellness is a priority. You deserve superlative care and the convenience of treatment and support in your own community. My goal is to help you on your journey to reaching your fullest potential. By providing treatment for issues such as anxiety, stress, depression, grief, phase of life, body image, relationships, sports/academic/workplace performance, weight loss, addiction, trauma, and more, I can help you learn ways to relieve your symptoms and start feeling better.
My practice, Esteem Counseling Center, is dedicated to providing high quality outpatient psychotherapy services in Northeast Connecticut. I believe that mental wellness is a priority. You deserve superlative care and the convenience of treatment and support in your own community. My goal is to help you on your journey to reaching your fullest potential. By providing treatment for issues such as anxiety, stress, depression, grief, phase of life, body image, relationships, sports/academic/workplace performance, weight loss, addiction, trauma, and more, I can help you learn ways to relieve your symptoms and start feeling better.
(959) 201-9408 View (959) 201-9408
Photo of Thomas A Brown, MD
Thomas A Brown
MD
Not Verified Not Verified
West Hartford, CT 06107
I have been a primary care physician since 2004 with interests in psychiatry (which I have been practicing for approximately 17 years) including- depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain syndromes, alcohol and narcotic abuse, weight loss management, and certification for medical cannabis.
As an experienced Medical Doctor I believe the strong connection between mind and body requires a holistic approach to healing somebody both mentally and physically. Many times a physical symptom can be a manifestation of a mental condition and the same can be said that a mental condition can be the symptom of a physical issue. I want to bring you my experience treating both mental and physical conditions to help you find a happy balance.
I have been a primary care physician since 2004 with interests in psychiatry (which I have been practicing for approximately 17 years) including- depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain syndromes, alcohol and narcotic abuse, weight loss management, and certification for medical cannabis.
As an experienced Medical Doctor I believe the strong connection between mind and body requires a holistic approach to healing somebody both mentally and physically. Many times a physical symptom can be a manifestation of a mental condition and the same can be said that a mental condition can be the symptom of a physical issue. I want to bring you my experience treating both mental and physical conditions to help you find a happy balance.
(860) 321-8595 View (860) 321-8595
Photo of Jannese L Webber - Talk Time Evals & Therapy, LCSW, LADC, LCAS-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Talk Time Evals & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Middlebury, CT 06762  (Online Only)
We specialize in Bariatric Surgical Evaluations including pre/post weight loss surgery support, Addictions Treatment and Life Coaching.
You may realize that a change is necessary and need support with seeing it through. We believe that everyone can use a fresh set of eyes from time to time, especially when things get emotional. Coming to therapy to gain a new perspective, while acquiring some tools and making adjustments to your approach is an Awesome Opportunity. We can help you get clear. In our experience, a desire for change takes a level of willingness coupled with some actions. Let's get back to 'living and enjoying life. We specialize in Bariatric Surgical Evaluations including pre/post weight loss surgery support, Addictions Treatment and Life Coaching.
We specialize in Bariatric Surgical Evaluations including pre/post weight loss surgery support, Addictions Treatment and Life Coaching.
You may realize that a change is necessary and need support with seeing it through. We believe that everyone can use a fresh set of eyes from time to time, especially when things get emotional. Coming to therapy to gain a new perspective, while acquiring some tools and making adjustments to your approach is an Awesome Opportunity. We can help you get clear. In our experience, a desire for change takes a level of willingness coupled with some actions. Let's get back to 'living and enjoying life. We specialize in Bariatric Surgical Evaluations including pre/post weight loss surgery support, Addictions Treatment and Life Coaching.
(203) 909-6769 View (203) 909-6769
Photo of Megan Duffy Knight - MDK Therapeutic Consulting Services, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
MDK Therapeutic Consulting Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookfield, CT 06804
These are very stressful times, and life can be so very hard with different challenges that we face over the years. Adults deserve a place where they feel welcomed to sort through their feelings, whether it be related to past trauma or current challenges. Families need a place to work through their struggles and not feel that they are alone in dealing with problems that can arise while raising children, to create healthy communication, and healing in their family. Children and teens may feel like coming to therapy means they are different, so its important that everyone who comes to therapy feels welcome and heard.
These are very stressful times, and life can be so very hard with different challenges that we face over the years. Adults deserve a place where they feel welcomed to sort through their feelings, whether it be related to past trauma or current challenges. Families need a place to work through their struggles and not feel that they are alone in dealing with problems that can arise while raising children, to create healthy communication, and healing in their family. Children and teens may feel like coming to therapy means they are different, so its important that everyone who comes to therapy feels welcome and heard.
(203) 220-4587 View (203) 220-4587
Photo of Taryn Heart - Relationship Consultants, MA
Relationship Consultants
MA
Verified Verified
East Hartford, CT 06118  (Online Only)
As an agency we have been supporting people via online sessions, with everything that falls “outside the box”. If you are encountering relationship problems, you may have found that it is easier to procrastinate rather than to seek the relationship advice and tools that you need. You may have even been waiting to seek consulting or coaching services for years. Meanwhile your relationship difficulties have only been getting worse. Our consulting services are designed to help you communicate better and make sustainable changes that will benefit you and your family throughout your lives to come back to loving one another.
As an agency we have been supporting people via online sessions, with everything that falls “outside the box”. If you are encountering relationship problems, you may have found that it is easier to procrastinate rather than to seek the relationship advice and tools that you need. You may have even been waiting to seek consulting or coaching services for years. Meanwhile your relationship difficulties have only been getting worse. Our consulting services are designed to help you communicate better and make sustainable changes that will benefit you and your family throughout your lives to come back to loving one another.
(475) 255-3027 View (475) 255-3027
Photo of Sharon D Baxley - Baxley Counseling LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Baxley Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Colchester, CT 06415
Currently accepting new clients for TELEHEALTH Services only in CT & RI. Welcome! I’m Sharon Baxley and I’m here to support you in navigating life’s challenges with compassion and authenticity. My approach to therapy is down-to-earth, open, and affirming, creating a space where you can be your true self. I believe that every person has a unique story, and I’m committed to meeting you where you are—without judgment or pretense. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply looking for someone to talk to, I’m here to listen and help you find the path that feels right for you.
Currently accepting new clients for TELEHEALTH Services only in CT & RI. Welcome! I’m Sharon Baxley and I’m here to support you in navigating life’s challenges with compassion and authenticity. My approach to therapy is down-to-earth, open, and affirming, creating a space where you can be your true self. I believe that every person has a unique story, and I’m committed to meeting you where you are—without judgment or pretense. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply looking for someone to talk to, I’m here to listen and help you find the path that feels right for you.
(860) 269-4830 View (860) 269-4830
Photo of Pamela Licensed In Ny Nj Ct And Fl Tinkham - Pamela Tinkham LLC, LCSW, SEP, C-IAYT, EMDRpr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pamela Tinkham LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, C-IAYT, EMDRpr
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stamford, CT 06903  (Online Only)
Thank you for having the courage to thrive! It is my privilege to serve and support you through life's difficulties and to get you to the other side of what you are going through. I've been known to say that therapy is not for the weak of heart. It takes strength and a complete willingness of body, mind and soul to enter into treatment and I fully commend you for taking that first step!
Thank you for having the courage to thrive! It is my privilege to serve and support you through life's difficulties and to get you to the other side of what you are going through. I've been known to say that therapy is not for the weak of heart. It takes strength and a complete willingness of body, mind and soul to enter into treatment and I fully commend you for taking that first step!
(475) 244-6578 View (475) 244-6578

See more therapy options for Storrs Mansfield

Weight Loss Therapists

What is the relationship between weight management and mental health?

Mental health can be significantly influenced by one's physical health, so overall improvements in one's quality of life as a result of improved physical functioning from weight loss can have an overall positive impact on an individual's mental health and allow them to engage more readily in everyday activities. In addition, many strategies used to manage weight, such as exercise and maintaining a healthy diet, are also associated with reducing the symptoms of common mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression. Individuals may also benefit from the improved self-esteem and self-efficacy that can come with successful weight management.

What is the psychological approach to losing weight?

While there are no specific therapy modalities specifically for weight loss, common psychological therapies can be highly effective in helping clients make lasting lifestyle changes. This may be called the "psychological approach" to weight loss because it does not rely on physical interventions, such as medication or weight loss surgery, to help clients lose weight. Weight loss counseling can be used in addition to or instead of such physical interventions. Some clients simply seek therapy to address the challenges that may accompany weight loss in general, including negative thoughts surrounding their body, disordered eating patterns, or difficulty completing daily tasks as a result of their weight challenges. In such cases, therapists will often utilize behavioral coaching or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques to help clients understand how their thoughts may be influencing their diet and physical activity patterns.

What type of therapy is commonly used in weight loss counseling?

Weight loss counseling often involves a combination of therapy and psychoeducation. Common techniques used by weight loss counselors include journaling, thought diaries, and other Cognitive Behavioral Therapy strategies that encourage clients to consider how their feelings about their weight loss impact their mental health. Weight loss counselors may also teach clients mindfulness exercises, which can be used by clients during and after eating to be more aware of physical cues from their body surrounding eating. Some clients looking for weight loss therapy may also benefit from group therapy approaches, which utilize the power of social connection and accountability to help clients adhere to their weight loss plan.

Is therapy recommended for individuals undergoing bariatric surgery?

While therapy is not a requirement for individuals undergoing bariatric surgery, many individuals undergoing weight loss surgery may benefit from seeing a counselor. Prior to surgery, counselors can help clients decide whether surgical weight loss is a good fit for them and assist in surgery preparation. Post-surgery, counselors can assist clients with the psychological component of maintaining their weight loss, as well as help clients navigate any postoperative pain. Throughout the surgical process, therapists can help clients process body-image challenges that may come with dramatic changes in weight, as well as manage symptoms of anxiety or depression that may accompany the major life changes bariatric surgery can bring.